Popple Campground - South Manitou Island
The island is undergoing major dock and infrastructure construction throughout 2026. The main dock, village, Bay Campground, group campsites, and all potable water sources are closed. Popple Campground remains open but accessible only by private boat or authorized charter (Manitou Passage LLC). No ferry service operates in 2026. Dock and village expected to reopen in 2027.
Special Weather Statement issued May 22 at 11:08AM EDT by NWS Gaylord MI
The combination of dry surface conditions, low afternoon relative humidity values, and gusty east to southeast winds will result in elevated fire danger conditions across northern lower Michigan this. Sustained winds of 7 to 15 mph with gusts of 20 to 30 mph will be seen over northern Michigan this afternoon. Minimum relative humidity values of 20 to 35 percent are expected over much of northern lower Michigan. These conditions could lead to rapid spread of fires. Check burning restrictions and fire danger before burning. For more information on burning restrictions for Michigan, see www.dnr.state.mi.us//.
About
Popple Campground occupies the most remote location on South Manitou Island, positioned roughly 3.5 miles from the dock along the island's northern shoreline near a sandy beach. The campground's distance from the ferry landing means fewer visitors make the trek, offering a quieter backcountry experience compared to Bay or Weather Station campgrounds. Seven individual sites accommodate up to 4 persons and 2 tents each, available first-come, first-served. This is true backcountry camping. There is no potable water at Popple; campers must bring filtration or treatment systems and carry adequate supplies. Vault toilets are available, but there are no fire rings at this campground. All trash must be packed out, and food should be stored in hard containers or hung from lines to prevent wildlife access. Pets and wheeled vehicles are prohibited. A backcountry permit is required before camping and can be obtained at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire or, during summer months, at the Fishtown dock in Leland. The island itself is open year-round, though off-season services are unavailable and access requires private watercraft.
Directions
South Manitou Island is located in Lake Michigan within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. In 2026, the Manitou Island Transit Ferry is not operating due to dock construction. Access requires a private boat (anchor offshore and use a smaller vessel to reach shore) or charter through Manitou Passage LLC at (231) 218-5853. From the island landing area, Popple Campground is approximately 3.5 miles on foot.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| sleepingbearinfo@nps.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (231) 326-4700 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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